this It was an intimate soiree of dinner, dancing and good music at the Speak Hope Foundation’s 2nd Annual Gala at Baldwin’s Coral House. It was intended to raise funds to help uninsured individuals and disadvantaged communities in and around Valley Stream pay for mental health treatment.
Seeking treatment can be costly for even the average middle-class individual, said Don Skinfield, director of the Speak Hope Foundation.
“Many people have insurance, but health insurance coverage is very limited,” said Skinfield. “People seeking mental health counseling go to a health care provider, believe that the provider is a good match and want to continue treatment, but the provider does not authorize the treatment. No. After that, the person would have to pay up to $1,500 out-of-pocket or go to another provider with a two-month waiting period and a $40 co-payment.”
Counseling services are provided by New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services, a partner organization of The Speak Hope Foundation. Every $40 pays for one session. “With about 150 participants, we raised about $17,500. We can help a lot of people with the money we raise,” he said Skinfield.
“AB Whitfield, founder of the Trey Whitfield School in Brooklyn and recently sponsored the event by recognizing individuals from New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services for their participation and support in this movement. I would like to thank Schneppes Media for doing this,” he said. Added.
